Vero Beach Front Porch Community Goes Solar

--Gifford community feels the power of the sun--

VERO BEACH ­ As Florida celebrates Clean Air Month, Governor Jeb Bush is putting the State’s sunshine to work to conserve energy and reduce electricity bills. Florida is providing solar water heaters to nine households in the Gifford Front Porch Florida Community-- part of 150 that will be delivered to residents in underserved communities throughout the state. Named Front Porch Sunshine, Florida is the first in the nation to install solar energy technology in weatherized, low-income homes.

“Energy conservation protects the environment and saves money,” said Governor Bush. “Extending the environmental and economic benefits of conservation to Florida’s neediest citizens improves our quality of life and strengthens our communities.”

The reliable, low-maintenance solar systems use the sun’s energy, instead of electricity, to heat water. A solar collector installed on the roof holds water that is heated by the sun. A traditional water heater serves as a backup supply of hot water on overcast or rainy days.

“Harnessing the power of the sun is clean, free and expands energy savings to Florida’s underserved communities,” said Department of Environmental Protection Secretary Colleen M. Castille. “By providing weatherization and energy-saving opportunities to our residents, families that need it most are able to minimize their energy bills and dedicate their financial resources to other important items in their monthly budgets.”

The Florida Energy Office, Florida Solar Energy Center and Florida Solar Energy Research & Education Foundation established a partnership with Front Porch Florida, a program launched by Governor Bush in 1999 to revitalize low-income neighborhoods, to improve energy efficiency of homes in designated communities throughout the State. State agencies are assisting 20 designated neighborhoods with community-driven initiatives for economic growth, education and environmental preservation.

“The solar water heater program is a perfect compliment to the Front Porch Florida Initiative,” said Department of Community Affairs Secretary Thaddeus Cohen. “These dynamic neighborhoods are continuing their legacy of promoting economic revitalization and community education while embracing this environmentally friendly technology.”

“I am thrilled the Gifford Front Porch community will benefit from this groundbreaking program,” said Florida Office of Urban Opportunity Director Patricia West. “Bringing the power of solar energy to our communities is a wonderful way for residents to take advantage of the successful collaboration between the Department of Community Affairs, Department of Environmental Protection, Florida Solar Energy Research & Education Foundation and community partners.”

For more information about Front Porch Florida, visit www.myflorida.com. For more about Front Porch Sunshine, visit www.fsec.ucf.edu/solar/projects/frontporch/frontporch.htm.